INSPIRING ARTISTS

…. And not feeling qualified to do so.

Lately I have been hearing more and more from other artists, both new and established that I have been an inspiration to them. This both warms my heart and gives me this uncomfortable twitch.

Am I really the right person to inspire others?

What makes you qualified to be an inspiration? When does it happen?

So, as I write this with no clear direction, I want to let you know that I have also approached my short art career in a very similar way. I had no real plan, just a determination to create. This at the end of the day is the only reason for my successes thus far, because without the art, there would be no artist right?!

I have had to fight like a warrior princess to make it happen, after all we are all still trying to convince society that our work as artists is a relevant and important contribution.

But, inspiring!

I never thought of myself as an inspiration!! Never. Maybe its age related, I mean I turned 40 recently, is it because I am old and wise now? Does wisdom kick in once you depart your 30s? I think it’s inspiring that my kids are learning to read and that the sun continues to rise every day, how cool is that. But little old me. I just keep walking back into that studio, it’s something that I love to do and a place I love to be.

Though, what makes me inspiring, I have never asked. Whether it’s the warrior in me or the subjects I choose to paint. Is it because I have hosted solo exhibitions in galleries. Participated in art awards. I don’t really know. But it is nice to know that for whatever reason, new artists feel comfortable to approach me and that they go on to start creating themselves.

The conversations I have with other artists both new and established are wonderful, sharing concepts and art world advice it works for everyone at every stage of their career. There is always room to learn.

It’s not something I promote, I am not a professional mentor and really I am still learning to be an artist myself.

However, those that take the time to reach out, that let me know I have indeed inspired them they are equally inspiring me. The problems or queries we work through are also promoting me to think peripherally, the cheerleading conversations, they work both ways!! “You’ve got this”

The Arts Community is a precious and inspiring industry to work in – its never just one artist. I reckon against all odds if you have the desire to create - you should!

ARTISTS ARE INSPIRING!!